An 84-year-old New Orleans police officer, believed to be one of the oldest and perhaps the oldest active-duty cops in the country, has died.

Manuel Curry had served the city for more than 63 years, according to a NOPD news release.

Curry, believed to be the longest-serving, active-duty, full-time law enforcement officer in the country, most recently worked in the NOPD's Sixth District in Central City, according to police.

Details of his death were not immediately available.

Curry was known by nearly all residents in Central City. He has been called a true community policeman -- noted as an affable officer who citizens could call to settle even the most minor dispute.

Curry had been honored with countless awards and citations throughout his career. Police officials had previously promoted him to the unique distinction of "sergeant major," a nod to his dedication and years of service.

But his service didn't start with policing. He was a combat medic in World War II who landed on Omaha Beach during the D-Day invasion. Curry died just short of the 65th anniversary of D-Day, which will be marked by ceremonies at the National World War II Museum in Saturday.